Applying for a shotfirer licence

A current Queensland Explosives Security Clearance (QESC) is required for anyone who has access to security sensitive explosives. You can apply for a QESC in the RSHQ Portal (the Portal).

From 24 May 2026, occupational authority applications move to the Portal. From 30 June 2026 all remaining explosive licences, notifications and reporting activities will also move to the Portal.

A shotfirer licence allows you to use, possess, purchase, store and transport limited quantities of blasting explosives.

This includes transporting up to 250kg of blasting explosives (net explosives quantity) without a separate licence to transport explosives in a suitable vehicle.

Shotfirers at mine sites

You don't need a shotfirer licence to work at a mine site if you meet the requirements listed in section 37(1) of the Explosives Regulation 2017 and are appointed by the site senior executive or underground mine manager.

Application requirements

Competency requirements

The competency requirements are listed in competency requirements for Queensland shotfirer licences (PDF, 268KB).

In Queensland, the following registered training organisations provide this training:

How to apply

From mid-May 2026, applications for occupational authorities are submitted via the RSHQ Portal (the Portal). If you do not already have a Portal account, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Create a Portal account—visit RSHQ Portal for account setup and help resources.
  2. Complete identity verification in the Portal.
  3. Submit a QESC application in the Portal. You must hold a valid security clearance before applying for an occupational authority relating to security-sensitive explosives (including fireworks and pyrotechnics).
  4. Submit the occupational authority (licence) application in the Portal.

Your application includes the payment of the licence fee, and the supporting documents listed below:

  • Passport sized photo: A passport sized photo of the applicant must be provided. The requirements for the photo are listed in the application.
  • Identity document: A copy of a current photo ID—Australian passport, foreign passport, Australian driver licence or learner permit, or ImmiCard. It must clearly show your face and the document details.
  • Medical certificate: A copy of a F3712 – Medical certificate for motor vehicle driver or an acceptable equivalent (i.e. any assessment form issued by a government agency assessing a person's fitness to drive) issued within the past 6 months and completed to commercial standards.
  • Letter from medical practitioner: A signed statement from a registered medical practitioner that confirms you are physically able to use and manually handle explosives in blasting activities as required by Section 37(1)(b) of the Explosives Regulation 2017.
  • Statement of attainment: A copy of a statement of attainment from a registered training organisation with the relevant units of competency for the category of licence being applied for. The statement of attainment must be dated within the past 5 years.
  • Safety and security management system (SSMS)—only required for applicants who will have 1 or more employees carrying out activities under the licence: A copy of the SSMS that deals with hazard and risk identification, risk assessment and risk control which covers all matters provided in section 46A(4) of the Explosives Regulation 2017. Read more about SSMS.

*Note: If you apply for an occupational authority, your biometric data (digital photo and signature) will be retained while your licence remains current. It will be destroyed if your application is withdrawn or refused, or your licence expires.

Fees and payment options

For new, or renewal applications submitted via the RSHQ Portal or Smartform, payment is made using a credit card at the end of the application process.

Read more about payment of licence fees.

Fees for shotfirer licences

Licence class Licence fee and period
Shotfirer licence 1 year  $71.29 (excl. GST)
5 years  $356.45 (excl. GST)

Obligations of licence holders

Use of explosives

As a licensed shotfirer, you must use explosives as required by the Australian Standard AS2187 Part 2 or an alternative safety measure for the standard.

You must take reasonable precautions to:

  • prevent misfires
  • minimise the risk of material being projected beyond the exclusion zone (flyrock)
  • minimise excessive noise
  • minimise the adverse effects of ground vibration and shock waves
  • ensure the security of an explosive used in blasting activities.

You must not use an explosive after either the manufacturer's recommended shelf life or the approved, extended shelf life.

Recordkeeping

You should keep a record of:

  • the amount and type of explosives you buy and use
  • each blast conducted.

Notification requirements

Shotfirers must notify us of any blasting activity (other than at a mine site, a quarry, down-hole wells for oil and gas, or an explosives factory) at least 7 days before the intended blasting activity.

From 30 June 2026, notification activities are to be completed via the Portal.